You should never underestimate your power to help captive wild animals in need. By voicing your concerns directly, you could make a real difference.

WHO TO WRITE TO

LOCAL AUTHORITIES

Local authorities are responsible for licensing zoos, pet shops, and other facilities that keep wild animals. Performing animals (in circuses, etc) are registered by county councils. You can find the right local authority to contact at www.gov.uk/find-local-council. Search using the facility’s postcode or town.

THE FACILITY

It is important the facility hears directly from concerned customers and visitors. Many places claim they never receive complaints, so please make your concerns known.

YOUR UK PARLIAMENTARY REPRESENTATIVE

You can find the contact details for your UK parliamentary representative at www.writetothem.com

THE MEDIA

Tell them about your experience and concerns. Sending them accompanying images may also help.

WRITE A REVIEW

Write a review on a website such as Trip Advisor. This is a great source of information and useful for spreading the word about captive wild animals at facilities and locations around the world.

WHAT TO WRITE

Effective emails or letters are short and concise. Around 300 words should be adequate to relay your comments and concerns. Be specific about why you are writing and what concerns you. Did you visit the facility with your family or friends? Did you pay an entry fee or buy a ticket? If you did, you have the right to raise your concerns about the welfare of the wild animals you encountered.

WHAT TO INCLUDE

The date of your visit

What you personally witnessed, including what animals you saw or are concerned about

Where you saw the animals, the name of the facility and its location

Describe the conditions the wild animals were in or how the animals were treated

Explain if the animals were being made to perform tricks and what they were doing

Describe your feelings at the time

Ask direct questions that require an answer, such as can you assure me that my concerns will be investigated? Are you aware this treatment is going on? What are the laws concerning the welfare of animals in zoos, circuses, etc? You could ask to see a copy of the zoo’s most recent inspection

If you have images to support your concerns, include them with your letter or email